Digitaria grass (Digitaria seriata)
Care, watering, light and tips for Digitaria grass on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Poaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Digitaria grass
Digitaria seriata, commonly known as crabgrass, is a fast-growing annual grass with a prostrate habit, characterized by stems that spread and root at the nodes. Its leaves are pale to medium green with a rough texture, and its inflorescences are slender spikes resembling crab claws. This species is a common weed in lawns, gardens, and cultivated areas, where it can form dense mats that aggressively compete with desired plants.
Native range
Tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia
Care tips
For Digitaria seriata, "care" typically involves control strategies, as it is a weed. It prefers full sun and well-drained soils, although it is highly adaptable to various conditions. Overwatering or frequent irrigation in lawns can promote its germination and growth. A common mistake is not addressing it early, as its seeds germinate in spring and it spreads rapidly, becoming more difficult to control once established.
How to save a dying Digitaria grass
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or whitish leaves, weak and prostrate stems, little to no flowering.
- First aid
- Remove weeds, aerate the soil, apply balanced fertilizer low in nitrogen. Water deeply if soil is dry.
- What kills it
- Soil compaction from constant trampling or machinery, excessive shade weakening it.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if acted upon quickly. It's a resilient plant, but needs space and light to recover.